Question

Using your knowledge about food and nutrition, briefly explain why fats are important for you. [ 6 marks]

Answer 1

The importence of fat in food and food and nutrition are discussed below

• Fat is the primary source of the essential fatty acids and which can not be synthesized by its own in the body. Therefore, fat is required in a balanced diet.
• Fats are required to initiate certain chemical reactions essential for growth , immune function and basic metabolism.
• Fats are the essential part of cellular membrane and without it the membrane would not form.
• Digestion of fat released more energy (9 Kcal/gm) comapared to carbohydrate and proteins.
• Unsaturated fats such as Omega-3 fatty acids, Omega-6 fatty acids, are beneficial of body by reducing the risk of heart disease and lower cholesterol levels.
• Fat if also requied to absorb certatin essential fat soluble vitamins such as Vita-A,D,K and E also absorb certain antioxidents such as lycopene and beta carotene.